BKK Prep, Early Years, News, Primary October 7, 2022

Welcome to the second of our Meet our Teachers series for this academic year. This week we meet Mandy McFarlane, our new Head of Early Years, to learn some more about her:

“I was born in Ascot, England and studied at Roehampton University qualifying with ‘BA in Primary Education’ with QTS. I lived and worked in London before moving to teach in Abu Dhabi for 11 years, where I taught in both IB and British curriculum schools within Early Years and Key Stage one. After spending 100 days travelling around Europe with my husband and daughter in our Motorhome, we relocated to Thailand 3 years ago and feel privileged to not only work at Bangkok Prep but have my daughter attend too.”

What made you want to embark upon a teaching career? Was there a particular moment or experience?

From as young as I can recall and from what my parents have told me, I have always wanted to be a teacher and care for people younger than myself; as a child I would line up my teddies and hold classes. I am passionate about teaching in the Early Years, wanting to provide all children a positive and exciting start to their school learning journey. I believe that given the appropriate encouragement, opportunities and environment, all children can flourish reaching their full potential and have a desire to become independent learners.

What inspired you to apply for the role of Head of Early Years?

With the introduction of a new Early Years Curriculum in 2021 and moving to our new campus at 77 next year, this was a perfect opportunity to lead an experienced and talented team in a changing department. I thrive in the challenge of ensuring we provide an outstanding learning environment and meet the diverse needs of all of our children. Being part of the Primary Leadership Team enables me to work on whole school improvements plans and policies with a variety of skilled and experienced leaders.

What do you enjoy the most about your job?

Being able to be creative and having fun! Children tend to remember an experience or new skill if they have a positive memory attached to it. Skills like handwriting can be quite dull to learn when you’re 3 or 4 years old but when you add music, movement, flipper flappers and laughter, everyone is eager to join in and learn without even realising.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

When I am not teaching, I enjoy keeping busy with my family, travelling together internationally and in our motorhome when in the UK. We are a very active family and enjoy exploring and making the most of the beautiful outside areas Thailand has to offer. When we are relaxing together, we enjoy playing board games and have a family Uno competition running. I enjoy attending a range of exercise classes with my favourite being Zumba and I ensure I find time to read a book or two.